2017 NFL Draft: TCU Aviante Collins Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
TCU’s Aviante Collins is an underrated offensive tackle prospect who has the potential to be an above-average starter in the NFL.
Aviante Collins is a terrific athlete for an offensive lineman. He features good straight-line quickness, change of direction and balance. His athletic profile is one of the reasons why he has the potential to develop into a long-term starter in the NFL.
Collins isn’t just a good athlete as he also plays the position with proper technique. He is committed to keeping a wide base, his hands out in front of his frame and head on a swivel. His wide base helps him maintain balance and anchor after contact.
He is able to mirror the pass rusher and adjust to inside counter moves. Collins’ hand usage keeps defenders off his frame. It also helps him control movement and deliver a strong punch.
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Collins features enough foot quickness to protect the edge and the pass rusher past the pocket. He spent most of his time in college at right tackle, but has the skills needed to play left tackle in the NFL. However, a small adjustment period is to be expected.
As a run blocker, he again gains inside hand placement and delivers a strong punch. Collins has the upper-body strength and heavy hands needed to Velcro. He plays with a nasty streak where he looks to drive the defenders off the ball.
TCU’s spread attack didn’t allow Collins to show his power game on a consistent basis. However, he showed flashes of his potential in this type of system. He does need to add some bulk to his frame as he’s a little thin through the hips.
Collins started to gain more attention after his strong Combine performance, but he’s much more than a good athlete. The more you dig into his tape the more you see a technically sound player with a ton of upside.
Draft Range: 3rd Round